We've Got the Beat

Andy has a few vacation days that must be used before the end of the year, so we took a spontaneous trip downtown last week. We weren't sure what we were going to do because some of our usual places, like the Children's Museum, are closed on Mondays. Luckily, while doing a little online searching, I stumbled across the Rhythm! Discovery Center. I think it's a little known gem, and if you are local, you really should check it out! It was a dream come true for Quinn--tons and tons of percussion instruments, mostly all available to play to his little heart's content. And I can't lie--Andy and I had a blast too. The above picture is one of the first things you see as you enter the museum, and it sets the tone for a great time. How irrestible is that huge drum?!

Next, check out these super huge windchimes!

There are 2 soundproof rooms where you can sit and bang away on snare drums, bongos, xylophones, cymbals, cow bells (my personal favorites), etc. I've always wanted to try the huge cymbals!

This drum set was obviously Quinn's favorite. He played and played and played. You can also record yourself in the rooms to hear back what you play. So fun!!

Of course, our visit was made even more great because we had the entire place to ourselves until the end, when one other parent came in with one child. There are online coupons, and kids under 5 are free with a paying adult. If you are in the area, check it out! :)

Summer Photography Session

Since I'm so behind in posting, I thought I'd post some of my favorites from a photography session we did in early August. A friend of ours has recently started a photography business, so we jumped at the chance of having some professional pics taken outdoors. Unfortunately, it was roasting hot that night. Even at 7 p.m., it was 93 degrees! Still, we were very happy with the results. I loved how Quinn's spirit was really captured. That's what I wanted to record from this stage of life--his smile, his running everywhere, our little close-knit family, etc.

If you're local and are interested in our friend's business, check out http://www.joetography.us/blog/.